Borderline personality Disorders (BPD)/Self harm
BPD is thought to affect about two per cent of the general population. It has been estimated that three-quarters of those given this diagnosis are women. It is a condition that isn't usually diagnosed until adulthood, because the personality is seen as still developing until then.
BPD is characterised by mood instability and poor self-image. Symptoms may include:
- constant mood swings and bouts of anger.
- victims taking their anger out on themselves, causing injury to their own body.
- impulsivity in at least 2 areas that are potentially self-damaging (e.g. spending, sex, drug/alcohol misuse, reckless driving, binge eating).
- Thinking in very black and white terms, and often forming intense, conflict-ridden relationships.
